Competing against students from leading dairy programs across North America, UVM students applied real-world dairy management skills to complex farm scenarios—demonstrating the strength of experiential learning at UVM.
The three-day national competition brought together students from universities across the country to collaborate in mixed-school teams, analyze a real dairy farm case, and present data-driven recommendations to industry judges. Over an intensive 48-hour period, participants evaluated herd health, management practices, and financial performance, simulating the work of professional dairy consultants.
Representing UVM on a National Stage
Students representing UVM in the Dairy Challenge Academy included Skyy Worster, Abby House, Gabriela Galvez, and Mackenna Weaver. Students competing in the national competition division included Maria Hurley, Emma Kennedy, Toby Greer, and Katie Nelson. The teams were coached and supported by Dr. Stephen Wadsworth and Wanda Emerich.
The Academy division, which emphasizes leadership development and applied learning, proved particularly successful for UVM students. Mackenna Weaver and Gabriela Galvez each earned first-place finishes in their respective Academy divisions, marking a significant achievement for the team and the program.
“As a Latina woman, winning my division means the absolute most to me,” said Galvez. “I never imagined achieving something like this against top dairy colleges. It’s an amazing feeling to represent UVM and continue to show what we’re capable of.”
The North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge is designed to mirror real dairy consulting work. Students analyze actual farm data—including milk production, somatic cell count (SCC), nutrition, reproduction, and housing systems—before identifying challenges and presenting practical, economically sound solutions to judges from the dairy industry.
Students worked long hours reviewing data, evaluating facilities and management practices, and developing clear recommendations aimed at improving herd health, efficiency, and profitability.
UVM students prepare throughout the academic year as part of the Dairy Challenge Club, practicing farm evaluations, reviewing herd data and production benchmarks, and learning to use industry software such as DairyComp. Usually, UVM students who competed at Nationals also participate in UVM’s Cooperative for Real Education in Agricultural Management (CREAM) program, which provides extensive hands-on experience with dairy cattle and farm operations.
“All of the students who attended Nationals had also been a part of the CREAM program at UVM, which definitely prepares students well for the competitions,” said Abby House.
House also reflected on how UVM students contribute a unique perspective when collaborating with peers from other institutions. “What’s unique about the UVM students who attend Dairy Challenge is that many of us didn’t grow up on dairy farms and want to become veterinarians. Our background through CREAM gives us valuable insight when evaluating farms alongside students from other schools.”
Collaboration Beyond Competition
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Dairy Challenge is its emphasis on collaboration. Students are intentionally placed on teams with peers from other universities, encouraging communication, shared problem-solving, and professional networking.
Beyond the competition, the trip offered valuable opportunities for connection and exploration. The team traveled together, toured large-scale dairy operations in a new region of the country, connected with dairy professionals and industry leaders, and even attended a Professional Bull Riders rodeo prior to the competition.
Abby House summarized what she most enjoyed about the Dairy Challenge Club, “One of the best parts is attending these competitions with a group of students you know so well,” said House. “It’s an incredible support system during the stress of the competition.”
Learning That Lasts
Students returned to Vermont with expanded technical skills and renewed confidence. Through the competition, participants strengthened their abilities in herd health evaluation, decision-making, data analysis, and translating classroom knowledge into practical solutions.
“Getting to compete in real-world experiences while bonding with our team and representing UVM is what makes Dairy Challenge so fun,” said Skyy Worster.
Dr. Wadsworth emphasized the significance of the students’ achievement and growth. “The UVM Dairy Challenge Team has represented the university on a national stage with a strong foundation in dairy management, exceptional teamwork, and unwavering integrity, passion, and dedication,” he said. “Many of these students began with no prior dairy experience, and now they compete alongside the top dairy programs in North America—a remarkable testament to their commitment and development.”
About the UVM Dairy Challenge Club
The UVM Dairy Challenge Club is open to students interested in dairy science, animal science, and veterinary careers. The club provides hands-on learning experiences, prepares students for regional and national competitions, and fosters professional connections within the dairy industry, helping students build confidence, leadership skills, and real-world problem-solving abilities. With two national first-place finishes and a growing reputation for excellence, UVM’s Dairy Challenge Club continues to demonstrate how experiential learning prepares students to succeed well beyond the classroom.
